The Repair Shop host accused of abusive behavior

Jay Blades, host of BBC series The Repair Shop, has been accused of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.

The presenter faces a charge and appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Following the news, the BBC aired a repeat of an episode of David & Jay’s Touring Toolshed, in which Mr Blades appears with actor David Jason, on Friday’s BBC One schedule.

A BBC spokesperson said: “It would not be appropriate to comment on ongoing legal proceedings.”

West Mercia Police said they launched an investigation after being called on May 3.

In a statement, police said: “Jason Blades, 54, of Claverley in Wolverhampton, has been charged with controlling and coercive behaviour.

“He appeared before Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court this morning (Friday 13 September) and was bailed to appear at Worcester Crown Court on Friday 11 October.”

Mr Blades became one of the best-known faces on British television after The Repair Shop launched in 2017, initially in a daytime slot and then in primetime after becoming a hit.

Mr Blades was last on air in The Repair Shop on Wednesday, and the show was nominated for the National Television Awards, which took place the same night.

He also hosted Money for Nothing, Jay Blades’ Home Fix and Jay and Dom’s Home Fix.

He was awarded an MBE in 2021 and is Chancellor of Buckinghamshire New University.

He reportedly broke up with his wife in May after 18 months of marriage.